Sparisoma chrysopterum (Bloch & Schneider, 1801)
Redtail parrotfish
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Scaridae (Parrotfishes), subfamily: Sparisomatinae
Max. size:  46 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 15 m
Distribution:  Western Atlantic: Caribbean Sea.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10-10; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 9-9. Young adults with black saddle-shaped markings at upper end of pectoral fin base; often vague, pale saddle-shaped area on top of caudal peduncle; and dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins red or orange (Ref. 26938).
Biology:  Occurs in coral reefs and adjacent habitats, the young especially in seagrass beds. Juveniles or primary-phase adults rapidly assume a mottled pattern with which they blend with the substratum when they come to rest on the bottom. Feeds on benthic algae and seagrasses.
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 15 September 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  reports of ciguatera poisoning


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